Talking to Your Doctor About Panic Disorder

You have a unique medical history. Therefore, it is essential to talk with your doctor about your personal risk factors and/or experience with panic disorder. By talking openly and regularly with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

General Tips for Gathering Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.

Write out your questions ahead of time, so you don't forget them.

Write down the answers you get, and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for clarification, if necessary.

Don't be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information about what you are discussing. You have a right to know.

Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Panic Disorder

Are my fears, panic attacks, and other symptoms typical of panic disorder?

Can you do a full physical to rule out other illnesses?

Are you trained to treat people with panic disorder? Do you have experience? If not, can you refer me to someone who does?

About Treatment Options

What treatment options are available for panic disorder?

If I need medication, how long will it take to work? What benefits should I expect? What side effects should I watch for?

Can you recommend counselors who treat people with panic disorder?

If you decide to try counseling, interview counselors and find one with whom you feel comfortable. You should ask the counselor about:

Their experience in treating panic disorder

Their basic approach to treatment

The length of treatment

The length and frequency of treatment sessions

What health insurance is accepted

How much treatment costs and if there is financial help available

About Lifestyle Changes

Are their lifestyle changes that could help reduce my panic and stress symptoms? Such as:

Diet

Relaxation and stress management techniques

Exercise

Can you recommend methods for incorporating these behaviors?

About Your Outlook

What are my chances of recovering from panic disorder, both with and without treatment?

Can panic disorder or related conditions recur? What can I do to prevent a recurrence?

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Tips for talking to your doctor. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Updated May 2014. Accessed June 27, 2017.